Sarah Willard has been hired as a women's lacrosse assistant coach at Butler University.

The Cazenovia, N.Y., native comes to Indianapolis from Towson University where she was a member of the women's lacrosse team. She was a four-year student-athlete, and a senior captain for the Tigers during the 2018-2019 season. Willard was a Colonial Athletic Association Commissioners Academic Award honoree.

Most recently, Willard worked for the Women's Professional Lacrosse League (WPLL) as an equipment and merchandising coordinator.  She was responsible for the organization, ordering and distribution of apparel and equipment for WPLL players and staff.

"I am excited to welcome Sarah to the Butler University community and to our women's lacrosse program," head coach Cecil Pilson said.  "Her knowledge of the game playing in the CAA and working at the WPLL will benefit our student-athletes as we continue to grow the program at Butler University."

While at Towson, Willard battled injuries that sidelined her for a majority of her four years, but did allow for an opportunity to step into a coaching role. Willard assisted with daily practices and games, focusing primarily on defense.

Throughout her collegiate career, Willard assisted with the Syracuse Salt City Lacrosse Club. She was co-head coach for the Snipers, training high school-level athletes.

She was also a volunteer coached for Harlem Lacrosse, an inner-city middle school and non-profit organization.  Working specifically with the Baltimore chapter of the program, Willard offered daily academic support, mentoring and leadership training to young athletes.

In the summer before attending Towson, Willard acted as a head clinic coordinator for the Cazenovia Lacrosse Association. Her duties included organizing, hosting and coaching weekly summer clinics for K-12 athletes.

Willard graduated from Towson University in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in exercise science.

She joins Pilson's staff alongside second-year assistant coach Nicole Kopyta, leading the Bulldogs into their fourth year of competition in the BIG EAST.